Honolulu residents will have the opportunity to celebrate the Lunar New Year this weekend at the inaugural Explore Asia Festival, hosted by the Palama Settlement. The free event, scheduled for Saturday, February 28th, from 10 a.m. To 7 p.m., aims to showcase the rich cultural diversity of Asian communities in Hawaiʻi. The festival promises a full day of entertainment, food, and activities for all ages, marking a significant cultural event for the region.
The Explore Asia Festival comes as many Asian cultures observe the first week of the Lunar New Year, a time for family reunions, traditional customs, and looking forward to a prosperous year. This year marks the beginning of the Year of the Fire Horse, a zodiac sign associated with energy, enthusiasm, and a pioneering spirit, according to Spectrum News. The festival at Palama Settlement provides a local venue for these celebrations, fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange.
A Day of Cultural Experiences
Attendees can expect a diverse range of cultural performances, including singing, dancing, and a K-pop dance-off. The festival also features activities specifically designed for children, known as “keiki” in Hawaiian, ensuring a family-friendly atmosphere. Beyond the performances, the event will host a variety of vendors offering authentic cuisine from Korea, the Philippines, and Japan, including both prepared meals and packaged snacks. A unique addition to the festival is a petting zoo hosted by DLT Ranch, featuring donkeys and a horse, tying into the Year of the Horse theme.
Jade Chun of Pacific Expos, the event organizer, and Samai Saechang, owner of Kynd Tea, recently discussed the festival on HNN’s Sunrise program. Saechang highlighted Kynd Tea’s commitment to using local ingredients and flavors in their matcha and specialty drinks. Kynd Tea’s participation underscores the festival’s focus on supporting local businesses and showcasing the unique culinary offerings of the Asian community in Hawaiʻi.
Parking and Accessibility
Palama Settlement, located at 810 N. Vineyard Blvd., will offer parking for a fee of $10 on-site and in nearby areas. Free street parking will also be available, providing attendees with convenient options for accessing the festival. For those seeking more information, the event website, pacificexpos.com, and the Kynd Tea Instagram page, @kyndtea, offer details about the festival schedule and participating vendors.
The Palama Settlement, a historic community organization, has long served as a hub for cultural and social programs in Honolulu. Founded in 1907, the settlement has a rich history of supporting the local community and promoting cultural understanding. This festival builds on that legacy, providing a platform for celebrating Asian cultures and fostering a sense of belonging.
The Explore Asia Festival represents a growing trend of cultural celebrations in Hawaiʻi, reflecting the state’s diverse population and its commitment to inclusivity. Events like this not only provide entertainment and economic opportunities but also contribute to a stronger sense of community and cultural pride. The festival’s focus on local businesses and performers further strengthens its impact, supporting the economic vitality of the Asian community in Honolulu.
As the Lunar New Year celebrations continue throughout the week, the Explore Asia Festival offers a vibrant and accessible way for residents and visitors alike to experience the richness and diversity of Asian cultures. The event promises to be a memorable occasion, fostering a spirit of unity and celebration within the Honolulu community.
What comes next for the Explore Asia Festival remains to be seen, but organizers have expressed hope that it will become an annual event, continuing to grow and evolve in the years to come. We encourage readers to share their experiences and photos from the festival in the comments below.
